SUMAN K SHRIVASTAVA
Ranchi, Dec 14: Strengthening cooperation in mining, investment, and mine safety was the key focus as Chief Minister Hemant Soren met Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green during a high-level meeting in Jharkhand on Sunday. The discussions come at a time when global mining companies from Australia, including explosives major Orica, are expanding their footprint in the state.
High-Level Delegation Meets Jharkhand CM
Chief Minister Hemant Soren, along with MLA Kalpana Soren, met Philip Green, Susan Marks (International Law), Tom Sanderford (First Secretary), and Anagha, Senior Economic Research Officer at the Australian Consulate-General in Kolkata. The delegation is currently on an official visit to Jharkhand.
The meeting was held at the Chief Minister’s residential office in Ranchi.
Focus on Mining, Investment, and Mine Safety
During the meeting, both sides discussed strengthening Jharkhand–Australia relations, promoting cooperation, and exploring investment opportunities, particularly in the mining sector. Special emphasis was laid on mine safety, the use of advanced mining technologies, and sustainable mining practices.
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The Australian High Commissioner noted that Jharkhand and Australia share several similarities in the mining sector, and that Australia has developed strong systems for safe mining and post-mining land restoration.
Invitation to Visit Australia
Philip Green invited Chief Minister Hemant Soren to visit Australia to strengthen cooperation further and explore partnerships in mining, technology, and skill development.
The Chief Minister appreciated Australia’s policy of restoring mined land and returning it to local communities. He noted that while similar policies exist in Jharkhand, they are not always properly implemented, even by public sector undertakings.
Knowledge-Based Economy and Tribal Development
The Chief Minister informed the delegation about Jharkhand’s natural resources, investment-friendly policies, and the state government’s commitment to transitioning from a labour-based economy to a knowledge-based economy. He received assurances of cooperation and joint efforts from the Australian side.
Discussions also covered tribal community development. The Australian delegation shared information about initiatives undertaken in Australia for indigenous communities and noted that both Australia and Jharkhand have a significant tribal population.
Orica Expansion Adds Context to Growing Ties
The meeting gains added significance as Orica, a global explosives and mining services company from Australia, has upgraded its fully owned subsidiary, Indian Explosives Ltd, at Gomia in Jharkhand.
Orica has outlined plans to make India a major production base for the Australia–Asian region, aligning with Jharkhand’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment in mining and allied industries.
Strengthening Jharkhand–Australia Partnership
With increasing Australian investments, access to advanced mining technologies, and shared priorities in mine safety, sustainability, and community development, the Jharkhand–Australia partnership is expected to strengthen further.
